Knowing the right kind of hives treatment can provide a lot of relief to people who frequently have hives. Read on to learn more about what hives are, and what you can do if they start appearing on your skin.
What are Hives?
Hives, also known as urticaria, is a type of skin reaction. It usually manifests as reddish welts or blotches on the skin, and is very itchy.
Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to different substances, but usually food or medication. Depending on how severe the reaction is, hives can also be accompanied by other symptoms of allergic reactions.
There are also cases wherein hives can be caused by an insect bite, exposure to the sun, or even pressure applied on the skin.
For the most part, cases of hives are not serious. In fact, some people outgrow them, and hives usually go away after some time, even without any form of treatment.
However, it is possible for hives to become chronic, if they last for more than six weeks. Hives can also come and go after a few months or years.
It’s also possible for hives to be a sign of a more serious illness, especially if the symptoms are severe. So it’s always a good idea to consult a doctor if the condition doesn’t go away after a while.
Effective Forms of Hives Treatment
There are a number of methods available when it comes to hives treatment, here are some of the more common methods:
Antihistamine
Antihistamines are a type of drug used to treat allergic reactions. These can help relieve itching or swelling whenever you have hives.
Some types of antihistamine can be purchased as over-the-counter medication. However, stronger forms of antihistamine might require a prescription from your doctor. So it would be a good idea to discuss your allergic reactions with your medical team so that they can help you find the right kind of medication.
Antihistamines can also have some side effects, such as drowsiness after taking the medication.
It’s also important to note that some antihistamines can only provide temporary relief, so you might experience flare-ups after some time. If this is the case, it might be a good idea to ask your doctor for alternatives that are longer-lasting.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are an effective form of hives treatment because they help reduce inflammation, as well as immune system reactions. Because allergic reactions that cause hives are an immune response, corticosteroids are prescribed by doctors in more serious cases.
Take note that corticosteroids should only be taken if you have a prescription for them, and the instructions that your doctor provides should be followed closely. This way, you can avoid any possible side effects or problems that might arise from misusing this medication.
Immunosuppressants
Immunosuppressants, as the name suggests, are drugs that suppress a person’s immune system. These are typically prescribed for very serious cases of hives, or if antihistamines and corticosteroids are not enough in terms of treatment.
Like corticosteroids, these are only prescribed by a doctor and are only given when other forms of medication are ineffective.
What You Can Do at Home
For less severe cases of hives, over-the-counter antihistamines can suffice. There are also some things that can help provide some relief from itching and swelling:
- Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothes.
- Avoid very hot temperatures as this can make hives worse.
- A cold compress can help relieve itching and swelling. However, avoid this if cold triggers your hives.
- Apply calamine lotion to your hives to reduce itching.
- Stress can sometimes make hives worse. So it is important for you to avoid stress.
- Be sure to take note of any triggers, and avoid them as much as possible.
If these are not enough, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor about your condition. They would best be able to give you the right kind of hives treatment to alleviate your symptoms.
Key Takeaways
Hives are rarely a serious condition, and in most cases, can readily be treated at home. However, if hives keep coming back, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor and ask about what might be causing you to have this recurring condition, and how it can be treated.
